The article consistently considers the main characteristic and distinctive features of universities of"different historical generations" - from 1.0. up to 4.0, including the basic requirements for the University of the XXI century. Historical changes in the understanding of the purpose of this social institution are traced. The position of modern universities in Russia and China is analyzed on the basis of world ranking research data based on the Times Higher Education Emerging Economies University Rankings 2019. The article highlights the key trends, as well as government programs aimed at the development and transformation of higher education towards greater competitiveness of universities both in Russia and China. It is noted that the development of universities in China and their integration into the global educational space is part of a large-scale Chinese project "One belt, one road". It is concluded that the technological section of the problem (currently - digitalization and tasks associated with it) is a transient form, while the content of the mission of the University as an intellectual corporation remains unchanged.